RPGBOT.Podcast

Get ready to spice up your next RPG session! In the latest RPGBOT.Podcast episode, we're diving deep into the world of cooking in D&D and Pathfinder 2. Think Gordon Ramsay, but with more fireballs and way worse kitchen safety.

Tune in for:

• Crafting rules & the chef feat
• Alchemical recipes that'll make your potions jealous
• Whimsical rituals like the Butterfly Bender (yep, it's a thing)
• And, uh, charity streams... with cooking? Maybe?

Listen now or risk burning your next in-game feast!

SUMMARY

Get ready for a tasty episode of RPGBOT.Podcast! In this hilarious conversation, the hosts tackle the culinary side of tabletop RPGs, proving that even in D&D and Pathfinder 2, food is no small fry. They serve up a buffet of topics, from crafting rules to the chef feat, sprinkling in the spicy reputations of Gordon Ramsay and Guy Fieri for good measure. They even chew on the idea of charity streams (perhaps featuring a few failed soufflés?). Plus, with alchemical recipes, food preservation mechanics, and Pathfinder's Wandering Chef archetype, the hosts show how cooking can be both flavorful and dangerous. Whether it's whipping up Butterfly Benders or debating the best snacks for gameplay, this episode is a full-course meal of laughs and creative gameplay ideas.

LINKS

• DnD
• 2024 Player's Handbook (affiliate link)
• Journeys Through the Radiant Citadel (affiliate link)
• Valda's Spire of Secrets (affiliate link)
• 3.5 Something's Cooking (affiliate link)
• Pathfinder 2e
• Tian Xia (affiliate link)
• Treasure Vault (affiliate link)
• RPGBOT.Podcast
• Food
• Survival
• Other Stuff
• Delicious in Dungeon
• Guy Fieri

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

• Cantrip Candles
• https://rpgbot.net/candles
• dScryb
• https://dscryb.com/rpgbot

EPISODE TAKEAWAYS

• Gordon Ramsay: More than just a tough critic, he stands up for restaurant workers.
• Guy Fieri: Once controversial, now a beloved chef and cultural icon.
• Food Mechanics in D&D: These mechanics enhance storytelling and add depth to gameplay.
• Crafting in Pathfinder 2: Complex but rewarding, crafting adds layers of strategy.
• The Chef Feat (D&D): A powerful feat that can significantly impact party dynamics.
• Alchemical Food in Pathfinder 2: Offers creative bonuses with quirky effects.
• The Battle Prawn Challenge: A humorous take on cooking mechanics in D&D.
• Food as a Storytelling Device: Food can serve as a creative tool to drive narrative in tabletop games.
• Memorable Gameplay: Integrating food mechanics into gameplay creates engaging and unforgettable experiences.
• Alchemical Items: Bring tactical advantages and flavor to the game.
• Wandering Chef Archetype: Offers unique mechanics and flavorful benefits to players.
• Food Preservation: Enables players to stockpile consumables for strategic use later.
• Buff Rituals: Rituals like Fortify and Brew offer significant in-game buffs.
• Butterfly Bender: A ritual that introduces humorous consequences for failure.
• Cooking Rituals: Create memorable moments in gameplay, adding fun and strategy.
• School of Gastronomy (Wizard Subclass): Emphasizes cooking-themed magic and mechanics, blending food with spellcasting.
• Describing Food in Detail: Detailed descriptions of food can deeply enhance player immersion.
• Temporary Hit Points from Monster Cuisine: Players can gain temporary hit points by cooking monster corpses.
• Cooking-Themed Gameplay: Balances fun and tactical importance, making sessions more engaging.

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon, where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

• Twitter: @RPGBOTDOTNET
• Facebook: rpgbotbotdotnet
• Bluesky:rpgbot.bsky.social

Ash Ely

• Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
• Twitter: @GravenAshes
• YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

• @JackAmateur
• Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

• @Lzr_illuminati

In this episode, the RPGBOT team dives into a hilariously overlooked topic in fantasy games: intelligent weapons—or, as we like to call them, "the sassiest companions you'll ever equip!" These talking items aren't just glorified stabby-sticks; they're a game mechanic waiting to add spice to your campaign. Whether it's a dagger with daddy issues or a bow that never shuts up about its legendary aim, these intelligent items have been tragically underused by players and DMs alike. Join us as we explore how to bring these quirky companions into your games without sparking a mutiny at the table. Ready for some weapon banter? Let's roll!

MATERIALS REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE

• RPGBOT.Podcast Episodes
• RPGBOT.Podcast Episode 4 – Failure, with special guest Colby of the Crit Fails Podcast
• DnD 5e
• Monster Manual
• Other Stuff
• Cortana
• Dr. Marten's Boots
• Easy Roller Dice (affiliate link)
• Futurama: Benderama
• Gollum
• Monstrous Races (affiliate link)
• Pinocchio
• Portal & Portal

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon, where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

• Twitter: @RPGBOTDOTNET
• Facebook: rpgbotbotdotnet
• Bluesky:rpgbot.bsky.social

Ash Ely

• Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
• Twitter: @GravenAshes
• YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

• @JackAmateur
• Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

• @Lzr_illuminati

Ever wonder what happens when gravity goes "nah" and castles are portable? Join us as we dive into the chaos that is the Plane of Limbo in D&D, where physics are optional and everything is... complicated.

We're talking Githyanki, Proteans, glitchy characters, and the ultimate question: what does your afterlife look like in a realm with zero rules? (Spoiler: It's wild.)

Catch the madness, laugh at the absurdity, and maybe pick up a few tips on surviving the most chaotic plane!

SUMMARY

In this wild episode, the hosts boldly dive headfirst into the swirling madness of the Plane of Limbo in Dungeons & Dragons—where the laws of physics are more like "suggestions." Brace yourself as they chat about the Githyanki and Githzerai, the soul cycle, and what happens when your neighborhood has zero zoning laws and gravity takes a vacation.

From Githyanki portable fortresses (think "floating castles on the go") led by the legendary Menyar Og, to ancient Proteans chilling in the Maelstrom, it's a buffet of chaos with a side of philosophy. Oh, and if you thought life in Limbo was confusing, wait until they get into Planescape glitch characters—because why not throw a few bugs into the cosmic soup?

Whether you want deep lore or just need a laugh at the absurdity of it all, this episode has you covered.

LINKS

• Dungeon Master's Guide (affiliate link)
• Mordenkainen's Tome of Foes (affiliate link)
• Forgotten Realms Wiki
• Pathfinder Wiki
• Heroe's Feast Official D&D Cookbook (affiliate link)
• Spooktober 2023: Slaad - RPGBOT.Bestiary S3E82

SUPPORT THE SHOW!

• Cantrip Candles
• https://rpgbot.net/candles
• dScryb
• https://dscryb.com/rpgbot

EPISODE TAKEAWAYS

Limbo: A Chaotic Wonderland: Limbo is the ultimate chaotic neutral outer plane where nothing stays the same—perfect for adventurers who enjoy unpredictability.

Mind Over Matter: In Limbo, your mental stats determine how you shape your surroundings, turning willpower into the most powerful tool in your adventurer's kit.

Gith Lore Galore: The Githyanki and Githzerai have a tangled history tied to Limbo, adding rich lore and opportunities for complex storytelling.

Soul Cycle of the Multiverse: Limbo plays a crucial role in the multiverse's soul cycle, reminding us that even chaos has a place in the grand cosmic order.

Food Fight: Sustenance is no easy feat in Limbo, where even your meal might change form before your eyes.

Order vs. Chaos: The eternal battle between order and chaos takes center stage, with Limbo serving as a metaphor for the unpredictability of life itself.

Creative Roleplaying: Limbo's ever-changing nature encourages creativity in gameplay, challenging players to think outside the box.

Githyanki Fortresses: Need a break from the chaos? The Githyanki build portable fortresses to gather resources and maintain some semblance of order.

Powerful Leaders & Chaotic Creatures: From the psionic powerhouse Menyar Og to the chaotic Proteans of the Maelstrom, Limbo is filled with colorful, powerful beings.

Afterlife Adventures: In the Maelstrom, the afterlife options are wild—whether you're reborn as a Protean or become a Valkyrie, the chaotic fun never ends.

Gods, Demigods, and Orc Challenges: Limbo and the Maelstrom are home to gods and demigods, where even orc deities can be challenged for their thrones after death.

Storytelling Goldmine: The chaotic nature of Limbo and the Maelstrom creates endless possibilities for unique and wild storytelling in your RPGs.

Planescape & Glitch Characters: Exploring Planescape gives players the chance to build creative characters, including glitch characters that add depth and variety.

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon, where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

• Twitter: @RPGBOTDOTNET
• Facebook: rpgbotbotdotnet
• Bluesky:rpgbot.bsky.social

Ash Ely

• Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
• Twitter: @GravenAshes
• YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

• @JackAmateur
• Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

• @Lzr_illuminati

DMs, ever feel like you're trying to herd cats...with fireball? In our latest episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we dive into the epic chaos of running tabletop RPGs with too many players. From keeping Jim awake (when he actually shows up) to making sure your combat doesn't last longer than your pizza delivery, we've got you covered!Join us as we unravel the mysteries of:

The "perfect" player count (is there such a thing?)

Streamlining combat for larger-than-life parties

The delicate art of loot distribution (sorry, wizards)

Managing player absences without breaking the immersion

Grab your dice, and let's roll on this adventure of DM survival!

Summary

In this episode, the hosts tackle every Dungeon Master's worst nightmare: wrangling a horde of players around the table! How many adventurers is too many? Can a party of eight heroes defeat the boss—before the pizza arrives cold? Join the crew as they debate the mythical "perfect" number of players and uncover just how chaotic the action economy can get when your cleric's turn takes 15 minutes.

From keeping everyone engaged (because even wizards get bored) to solving the classic riddle of "Where's Jim?" (spoiler: he's absent again), they share battle-tested strategies to keep the game rolling without summoning TPK-level frustration. Combat, loot, exploration—nothing escapes their deep dive into the arcane arts of managing large groups in both D&D 5E and Pathfinder 2. Expect laughter, loot discussions, and a not-so-subtle reminder that session zero isn't just for deciding your backstory—it's for figuring out how to keep eight players from talking over each other!

Links

• Content from RPGBOT.net
• Practical Guide to Faster Combat

Support the Show!

• Cantrip Candles
• https://rpgbot.net/candles
• dScryb
• https://dscryb.com/rpgbot

Takeaways

Player Count Sweet Spot: Aim for 4-5 players to keep things smooth and engaging. Any more, and you might find yourself wrangling chaos instead of adventurers.

Combat Slows the Pace: With larger groups, combat can become a slog—streamline it by encouraging players to know their abilities and use cheat sheets for faster decisions.

Session Zero Magic: Use session zero to set expectations, lay out group dynamics, and emphasize the importance of communication.

Active Initiative = Engagement: Keep players involved during combat with active initiative, so they stay focused instead of wandering off into side conversations.

Time Management Matters: Use strategies like sharing characters or quick decision tools to manage absent players and keep the game rolling smoothly.

Creativity in Exploration: Larger groups can make exploration and social interactions feel trivial, so spice it up with creative solutions that engage the entire party.

Not All Combat Is to the Death: Consider letting enemies flee or surrender to keep encounters dynamic and prevent fights from dragging on unnecessarily.

Meaningful Loot: Reward your players with loot that keeps them motivated, but make sure it's something that benefits the whole group.

Class Versatility: Pathfinder 2E offers more versatility for classes like monks and fighters compared to D&D 5E, giving players more flexibility and fun.

Action Economy Challenge: With larger groups, adjust your encounters to avoid overwhelming players and keep the action economy manageable.

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon, where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

• Twitter: @RPGBOTDOTNET
• Facebook: rpgbotbotdotnet
• Bluesky:rpgbot.bsky.social

Ash Ely

• Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
• Twitter: @GravenAshes
• YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

• @JackAmateur
• Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

• @Lzr_illuminati

In this remastered episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we're chatting all things probability, critical fails, and moments of epic success. Whether you're a fan of DnD's d20, love the chaotic beauty of dice pool systems, or want to decode the mysterious symbols of Fantasy Flight's Star Wars RPG, we've got you covered! Tune in and find out which system gives you the best odds for that sweet, sweet nat 20!

Materials Referenced in this Episode

• RPGBOT.Podcast Episodes
• RPGBOT.Podcast Episode 10 – Horror
• RPGBOT.Podcast Episode 4 – Failure, with special guest Colby of the Crit Fails Podcast
• RPGBOT.podcast Episode 3 – Metacurrencies in Tabletop RPGs
• Other Stuff
• Alien RPG
• Crit Fails Podcast
• Dark Heresy 1e
• Darkest Dungeon
• Dread RPG (affiliate link)
• Fantasy Flight Star Wars (affiliate link)
• Jenga (affiliate link)
• Monopoly (affiliate link)
• Mork Borg
• Pathfinder 2e (affiliate link)
• Powered by the Apocalypse
• The One Ring 2e
• Warhammer 40k Universe
• Vampire, the Masquerade (affiliate link)
• Yatze (affiliate link)

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon, where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

• Twitter: @RPGBOTDOTNET
• Facebook: rpgbotbotdotnet
• Bluesky:rpgbot.bsky.social

Ash Ely

• Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
• Twitter: @GravenAshes
• YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

• @JackAmateur
• Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

• @Lzr_illuminati

Saddle up, folks! The RPGBOT.Podcast is riding into the Wild West of Eberron with the "Frontiers of Eberron: Quickstone" supplement by Keith Baker and his team! In this week's episode, we're talking dueling wizards, living magic items, and more subclasses than you can shake a six-shooter at! We've got arcane focus specialization feats that'll have you channeling spells like a gunslinger, and we're drooling over some symbionts—magic items that are alive (and a little creepy). Plus, train heists, collapsed mines, and a final boss showdown in a demi-plane. It's like D&D meets High Noon! Whether you're into westerns, Eberron, or just want to bring a little yeehaw to your next adventure, this episode is for you! Listen now, partner, or you'll be rolling initiative before you know it!

Summary

In this rootin' tootin' episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, the hosts saddle up and mosey into the newest D&D supplement, "Frontiers of Eberron: Quickstone" by Keith Baker and his posse. This ain't your average spell-slinging adventure—it's a full-blown magical showdown in a Wild West-style town! The hosts excitedly tip their hats to the supplement's shiny new dueling mechanics, subclasses, and species. Turns out, nothing says "Welcome to Eberron" like a shootout between a gunslinger and a wizard wielding a living, symbiotic magic item.

They geek out over the coolest feats, like the arcane focus specialization (because who wouldn't want to channel a spell while doing their best Clint Eastwood impression?) and gush over the weird-but-awesome "symbionts"—magic items that are, quite literally, alive. Oh, and let's not forget the eye-popping art and monsters that could make even the bravest outlaw want to roll for initiative.

They round off the discussion with a quick gallop through the adventure module, which features everything you'd expect from a fantasy western: train heists, mine collapses, and a final showdown in a demi-plane. The hosts give it two enthusiastic thumbs up and a tumbleweed for good measure, recommending it for anyone who loves the Eberron setting or just wants to throw some magic into their next High Noon duel.

Yeehaw!

Links

• Frontiers of Eberron: Quickstone (affiliate link)
• RPGBOT.Podcast Episodes
• Keith Baker on Eberron, Remastered

Takeaways from the Episode:

• The hosts dive into the dueling mechanics in the Quickstone supplement, sprinkling in plenty of humor along the way.
• Frontiers of Eberron: Quickstone brings a Wild West vibe to the Eberron setting, complete with a frontier town atmosphere.
• New dueling mechanics offer high-risk, high-reward gameplay, creating cinematic and tense showdowns.
• The supplement adds depth to character creation with new subclasses, backgrounds, and species tailored for the Eberron setting.
• New feats and magic items provide unique, creative options for players to explore.
• The book's art is visually stunning and enhances the overall experience.
• Creative monster designs add fresh challenges for players to face.
• The included adventure is a perfect introduction to the setting, blending classic D&D elements with a Wild West twist.
• Quickstone is a well-crafted adventure module for the Eberron campaign, featuring dramatic events like a train attack, mine collapse, and a boss battle in a demi-plane.
• The hosts highly recommend Quickstone for fans of both westerns and the Eberron setting.

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon, where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

• Twitter: @RPGBOTDOTNET
• Facebook: rpgbotbotdotnet
• Bluesky:rpgbot.bsky.social

Ash Ely

• Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
• Twitter: @GravenAshes
• YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

• @JackAmateur
• Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

• @Lzr_illuminati

Are Stealth checks getting you down? Line of sight confusing the heck out of your game? We've got you covered! In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we dive into the wild world of 2024 D&D stealth mechanics, share some good old-fashioned frustration over D&D 5e's hiding rules, and debate how loud a whisper really is. Oh, and we also reveal our favorite shiny items from Baldur's Gate 3 – spoiler: someone's got a thing for the Cracked Wand of Fireballs. Tune in for laughs, rants, and lots of poof you're invisible!

Summary

In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, the hosts explore the updates to stealth mechanics in the upcoming 2024 D&D rules and the challenges surrounding their implementation. They analyze the flaws and inconsistencies in the Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition (5e) stealth system, focusing on the low success rate of hiding at early levels and the minimal improvement as characters progress. The conversation highlights confusion stemming from unclear rules about line of sight, cover, and invisibility, which often lead to frustration and arguments at the table. In the latter part of the episode, the hosts discuss stealth-breaking conditions and share their favorite items from Baldur's Gate 3, including the Staff of the Magi, Gauntlets of Ogre Strength, and the Cracked Wand of Fireballs, while touching on the limitations of stealth mechanics, especially with spells like Fairy Fire.

Links

• 2024 DnD
• 2024 Player's Handbook (affiliate link)
• Free Rules on DnDBeyond
• Tales of the Valiant
• BFRD.net
• Tales of the Valiant Player Guide and Monster Vault (affiliate link)
• Content from RPGBOT.net
• 5e to ToV Transition Guide

Takeaways

• The stealth mechanics in Tales of the Valiant and the 2024 D&D rules have changed, with passive skills and fixed perception scores for NPCs
• The hosts discuss the challenges and potential solutions in implementing stealth mechanics The hiding and stealth mechanics in 5e have flaws and inconsistencies, particularly in the success rate of hiding at low levels and the lack of improvement as characters level up.
• The language and rules regarding line of sight, cover, and the invisible condition are confusing and contradictory.
• The attempt to make the rules more explicit has resulted in more confusion and potential arguments at the gaming table.
• DMs may need to make rulings and interpretations to clarify and resolve the issues with hiding and stealth in 5e. The stealth rules in D&D 5e have limitations and inconsistencies, particularly regarding line of sight and the Fairy Fire spell.
• Conditions that can break stealth include making a sound louder than a whisper, being found by an enemy, making an attack roll, or casting a spell with a verbal component.
• Favorite items from Baldur's Gate 3 mentioned by the hosts include the Staff of the Magi, Gauntlets of Ogre Strength, and the Cracked Wand of Fireballs.

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon, where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

• Twitter: @RPGBOTDOTNET
• Facebook: rpgbotbotdotnet
• Bluesky:rpgbot.bsky.social

Ash Ely

• Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
• Twitter: @GravenAshes
• YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

• @JackAmateur
• Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

• @Lzr_illuminati

In this episode of the RPGBOT Podcast, we dive into the art of creating well-rounded characters. Beyond mechanics, we explore how to develop characters with engaging personalities, clear goals, and consistent behaviors that come together to form realistic and intriguing individuals.

Links

• RPGBOT.Podcast Episodes
• RPGBOT.Podcast S2E12 – Creating Your Backstory
• DnD 5e
• Icewind Dale: Rime of the Frostmaiden (affiliate link)
• Other Stuff
• A Song of Ice and Fire
• Fantasy Flight Star Wars
• Edge of the Empire
• Friends
• Game of Thrones
• Gandalf
• Guardians of the Galaxy
• Peter Quill
• It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia
• Seinfeld

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon, where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

• Twitter: @RPGBOTDOTNET
• Facebook: rpgbotbotdotnet
• Bluesky:rpgbot.bsky.social

Ash Ely

• Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
• Twitter: @GravenAshes
• YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

• @JackAmateur
• Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

• @Lzr_illuminati

Ever made a deal with a dragon? How about a dark force lurking in the shadows? In our latest RPGBOT.Podcast episode, we dive deep into the world of pacts, bargains, and contracts in

• TTRPGs RPGs like D&D and Pathfinder 2!
• Dragon Pacts in 3.5e
• Dark Gifts in Ravenloft
• Infernal Contracts in Pathfinder 2
• PLUS: Ash and Randall spill their DM crutches

Whether you're a player or DM, this episode is packed with storytelling gold and tips on how to strike a deal (without losing your soul)!

Summary

In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, Ash, Tyler, and Randall dive deep into the world of pacts, bargains, and exchanges in role-playing games. They explore how these mechanics enhance both storytelling and gameplay, with examples from popular systems like Dungeons & Dragons and Pathfinder 2.

The discussion starts with Dragon Pacts from 3.5e, where sorcerers could trade spell slots for spell-like abilities granted by powerful dragons. They also examine the Dark Gifts from 5e's Van Richten's Guide to Ravenloft, which offers players powerful abilities in exchange for dark, often risky consequences.

In this insightful conversation, the hosts analyze dark bargains, supernatural gifts, and infernal contracts in both 5e and Pathfinder 2. They highlight the delicate balance of power, agency, and storytelling potential that pacts bring to the table, particularly for Warlocks and their patrons. The hosts stress the importance of giving all characters attention and encourage DMs to integrate patrons more effectively into their games.

Wrapping up, Ash, Tyler, and Randall discuss various contracts in Pathfinder 2, including Infernal Contracts, Thrun Contracts, and divine intercessions, unpacking their hidden clauses and the intricate consequences. They also share their personal DM crutches, such as relying on combat and pre-made maps, and respond to a question of the week about their biggest DM habits.

Links

D&D 3.5 Dragon Magic (affiliate link)

Takeaways

• Pacts, bargains, and exchanges in role-playing games provide opportunities for unique storytelling and character development.
• Dragon Pacts in 3.5e allowed sorcerers to trade spell slots for spell-like abilities granted by powerful dragons.
• Dark Gifts in 5e's Van Richten's Guide to Ravenloft offer players unique abilities and drawbacks tied to the dark forces of the setting.
• Pacts can serve as a storytelling device, providing players with choices and consequences that shape their characters' paths.
• Pacts can introduce powerful NPCs, create story hooks, and add depth to the game world. Different types of deals and bargains add depth and complexity to the game
• DMs should balance the attention given to different characters and their backstories
• Supernatural gifts, such as blessings and charms, can provide temporary boons to players
• Contracts in Pathfinder 2 have hidden clauses and termination clauses, adding intrigue and risk
• Warlock patrons offer opportunities for role-playing and character development Pathfinder 2 offers various types of contracts, including Infernal Contracts, Supernatural Contracts, and Thrun Contracts.
• Contracts can have hidden clauses and termination clauses that add complexity and consequences to the agreements.
• Divine intercession provides boons and curses from deities, offering unique abilities and limitations.
• DM crutches can include relying on combat encounters and using pre-made maps.
• It's important for DMs to be aware of their crutches and strive for a balanced and engaging gameplay experience.

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon, where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

• Twitter: @RPGBOTDOTNET
• Facebook: rpgbotbotdotnet
• Bluesky:rpgbot.bsky.social

Ash Ely

• Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
• Twitter: @GravenAshes
• YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

• @JackAmateur
• Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

• @Lzr_illuminati

In this remastered episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we talk to Keith Baker, creator of the Eberron setting, about the setting, its real-world history, and how to tell amazing stories in it. Keith shares insights into one of the most complex and interesting official settings, as well as years of experience and insight telling exciting pulp/noir stories in a setting so novel that it defines the "dungeonpunk" genre.

Keith Baker is an American game designer and author best known for creating the Eberron campaign setting for Dungeons & Dragons. In 2002, Baker won Wizards of the Coast's Fantasy Setting Search contest, which led to the development of Eberron, a unique world blending high magic, noir intrigue, and pulp adventure. In addition to his work on D&D, Baker has contributed to a variety of tabletop games, including the card game Gloom, and has written novels set in the Eberron universe. He is highly regarded for his imaginative world-building and innovative game design.

Links

• Keith Baker
• Twogether Studios
• Eberron Novels
• Patreon
• Keith Baker on DMsGuild
• Wayfinder's Guide to Eberron (affiliate link)
• Exploring Eberron (affiliate link)
• Chronicles of Eberron (affiliate link)
• RPGBOT.Podcast Episodes
• Dragonlance: Shadow of the Dragon Queen – RPGBOT.News S2E97
• DnD 5e
• Eberron: Rising from the Last War (affiliate link)
• Monstrous Races on DMsGuild (affiliate link)
• Van Richten's Guide to Ravenloft (affiliate link)
• Other Stuff
• Gloom (affiliate link)

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon, where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

• Twitter: @RPGBOTDOTNET
• Facebook: rpgbotbotdotnet
• Bluesky:rpgbot.bsky.social

Ash Ely

• Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
• Twitter: @GravenAshes
• YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

• @JackAmateur
• Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

• @Lzr_illuminati